Cord Blood Banking 4

Question 1

Which cryoprotectant is most commonly used to preserve cord blood stem cells during cryogenic storage?

Accepted Answer

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)

Answer

DMSO is the standard cryoprotectant used in cord blood banking because it penetrates cells and prevents ice crystal formation during freezing.

Question 2

In cord blood banking, what does 'CD34+ cell count' measure?

Accepted Answer

The concentration of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells

Answer

CD34 is a surface marker on hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells; its count is a key quality metric reported on every banked unit.

Question 3

Which storage temperature must cord blood units be maintained at in cryogenic tanks?

Accepted Answer

-196°C (liquid nitrogen)

Answer

Cord blood is stored in liquid nitrogen at -196°C, which halts all biological activity and allows indefinite long-term preservation.

Question 4

A family relocating internationally wants to transfer their privately banked cord blood unit abroad. Which challenge is most likely?

Accepted Answer

International transport requires specialized cryogenic shipping and import permits

Answer

International transfer requires validated cryogenic dry-shipper transport and compliance with both US export and destination country import regulations.

Question 5

What is the purpose of maternal blood testing at the time of cord blood collection?

Accepted Answer

To screen for infectious diseases that could contaminate the cord blood unit

Answer

Maternal blood is tested for infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B/C, and syphilis, as these pathogens can be transmitted to the cord blood unit.

Cord Blood Practice Test

Cord Blood Practice Test

Cord Blood Banking 4